The Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) has released its latest National Cyber Threat Forecast report, projecting a surge in cybersecurity threats within the country for the year 2024. The report emphasizes an increase in insider threats facilitated by the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for malicious purposes.
Insider threats on the rise
In its annual report, CSEAN highlighted the growing concern over insider threats in Nigeria. The association anticipates that 2024 will witness a notable increase in these threats, largely due to the employment of AI-driven tactics by cybercriminals. These insider threats pose a significant challenge to cybersecurity, as they often involve individuals within an organization who misuse their access for malicious purposes.
Impersonation scams continue
The report further indicates that Nigeria will continue to grapple with impersonation scams in 2024. These scams involve the creation of fraudulent websites and social media profiles using the names and images of well-known figures, deceiving the public for fraudulent gain. To combat these scams effectively, CSEAN stresses the importance of public awareness campaigns and educating individuals on reporting such fraudulent activities. Additionally, the report recommends that social media platforms and websites enforce stricter verification processes for profiles claiming organizational or individual identities.
Academic institutions under siege
Another concerning trend outlined in the report is the high incidence of cyberattacks on academic institutions. CSEAN calls for immediate attention to bolster cybersecurity measures, particularly in the education sector. The rise in attacks on academic institutions raises significant concerns about the safety of sensitive data and intellectual property within the education system.
Employment and benefit scams on the horizon
CSEAN predicts an upsurge in employment and benefit scams in 2024, a trend that gained prominence in the previous year. These scams typically entice victims with promises of financial inducements and part-time job offers, predominantly disseminated through various digital platforms. The association attributes the expected increase in these scams to Nigeria’s challenging economic situation, which may push more individuals to seek financial opportunities online.
AI’s role in cybercrime
The association emphasizes the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating cybercrime. AI has the capability to perform tasks typically associated with intelligent beings, such as learning, reasoning, and perception, all of which can be harnessed by cybercriminals to carry out sophisticated attacks. As AI technology continues to advance, the threat posed by AI-driven cyberattacks becomes increasingly significant.
In light of these projections, CSEAN calls upon all sectors, especially education, to reassess and bolster their cybersecurity measures promptly. Vigilance and proactive efforts are essential to mitigate the evolving threats in the digital landscape.
The Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria’s National Cyber Threat Forecast report serves as a crucial warning of the impending cybersecurity challenges that Nigeria is likely to face in 2024. With the proliferation of AI-driven tactics and cybercriminal activities, the need for robust cybersecurity measures and public awareness has never been more critical. Nigeria must prepare and respond swiftly to these evolving threats to safeguard its digital landscape and protect its citizens from cyberattacks.
